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Chapman on verge of returning to action for Reds

Chapman on verge of returning to action for Reds

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CINCINNATI -- There's still no certainty on when Reds closer Aroldis Chapman may become available again, but a return could be just around the corner.

Pitching coach Bryan Price said Chapman threw mini sessions both in Chicago and before Friday's game in Cincinnati and was feeling better. But the final decision still lies in the hands of manager Dusty Baker, who remained in a Chicago hospital for treatment for an irregular heartbeat.

"He's felt good. Chappy feels good to go," Price said of the lefty, who hasn't appeared in a game since Sept. 10 due to shoulder fatigue. "This is Dusty's team, he has to make the decisions on who he would consider using and not using. I'm going to talk with Dusty first before we move forward."

Price said Chapman's availability Friday was a "wait and see" situation and planned on talking to both Baker, team medical director Timothy Kremchek and acting manager Chris Speier before coming to a final conclusion.

"If he's available, and there's an opportunity to use him, I'm not going to hesitate," Speier said. "I don't know what role that I would put him in the first time back. It'd be good to get him back out on the mound and I'm sure he's champing at the bit to do that."

Price said if Chapman does not pitch Friday, he'll more than likely be available Saturday.